PRESS RELEASE
5th December 2024
It is with great honor that we announce that Alexander Innovation Zone (AZK) has been awarded the title “Startup Ecosystem Star 2024” at the annual Startup Ecosystem Stars Awards (SES) ceremony, held on December 4, 2024, in Paris.
This is the first time that Greece has received such an important distinction for its entire innovation ecosystem, highlighting Northern Greece as an international Hub of innovation and entrepreneurship.
The award was received by the President of the Alexandria Innovation Zone, Dr. Panayiotis Ketikidis, who said: “This award reflects our vision and efforts to promote Northern Greece as a Hub that embraces innovation and entrepreneurship, while creating an attractive and sustainable environment to live, work and invest. It is a strong confirmation that cooperation between all actors in the innovation ecosystem is delivering results, enhancing the international reputation of both Northern Greece and the country as a whole as a benchmark for innovation and entrepreneurship at an international level.“
In his capacity as the supervisor of the Alexander Innovation Zone, the Deputy Minister of Interior (Macedonia-Thrace) Konstantinos P. Gioulekas, congratulated the President and the executives of the Innovation Zone for the important distinction they have achieved. As he emphasized: “The awarding of AIZ with the first “Startup Ecosystem Star 2024” award reflects the methodical and effective work done by all its executives, as well as all the actors of the innovation ecosystem in our country. Northern Greece takes a peak by certifying that Macedonia and Thrace have the potential to emerge as a strong growth force, establishing our region as an Innovation Hub. The award shows us the way forward, as extroversion is an important factor in establishing Greek innovative products and services in international markets“.
The awards ceremony, organised by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and Mind the Bridge with the cooperation of the OECD, the European Commission and the support of Microsoft, highlighted organisations that contribute to boosting innovation globally.
As Mr Alberto Onetti, President of Mind the Bridge and co-organiser of the SES Awards, said “AIZ aspires to become a beacon of innovation and collaboration in South East Europe, fostering a dynamic vibrant ecosystem that bridges academic excellence and research with entrepreneurial ambition. Its dedication to attracting innovative businesses and nurturing innovative ideas not only benefits Northern Greece, but also creates a benchmark for innovation-driven development across borders. With this award, the SES Awards Evaluation Committee acknowledges AIZ’s vision to create a regional innovation hub.“
This award is a milestone for our country, as it is the first time that such a distinction has been awarded to Greece, confirming the dynamism of the domestic innovation ecosystem and its ability to excel on the international stage.
For additional information, photos, and videos for publication, please refer to MEDIA KIT-ICC AWARDS 2024.
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Alexander Innovation Zone S.A.
Tel. Contact +302316-018635
